Cleaning

• Often, when stain doesn't stick to concrete, the culprit is poor surface preparation. Oil and grease prevent stain from adequately absorbing into the concrete. If you apply stain directly over an unwashed basement or garage floor, it will separate. This tends to create patches of bare concrete and areas of discoloration. Before you attempt to apply stain to a concrete surface, wash it with a degreasing cleanser.
  
  

Latex Stain

• If the stain didn't stick to your concrete, it may be because you chose a water-based latex stain. These coatings work well with wood; unfortunately, they are not suited for durable, nonporous concrete.
  
  

Liquid Stain

• Liquid stains are well-suited for softwoods, such as cedar and pine. They do not work well with nonporous surfaces, such as vinyl and concrete. If you try to use a liquid stain on a concrete surface, you'll end up with splotchy results.
  
  

Solutions

• For a uniform finish that adheres well to concrete surfaces, choose a slow-absorbing gel stain. Be sure the concrete is clean before applying the gel, or it will not properly adhere or absorb. Be sure the cement is dry before applying the stain; moisture will also prevent the stain from sticking.